What's in a friend?

I would just like to take a moment to acknowledge what I value in my friends.

1. I value the ability to talk to them about my life and the struggles I face. Being able to talk keeps me grounded and stops me from doing something completely stupid, like running away to never return. It also helps me not be too irrational in dealing with those that upset me.

2. I value their commitment and loyalty despite me. I know my friends will always be there for me, and accept me for who I am. I don't have to be fake in order for them to care about me. I like knowing that even though sometimes I can "piss [them] off" they forgive me and don't miss a beat.

3. I value the support they give me. Let's face it, sometimes life is a beach, and we all need somewhere to go. Maybe I'm just speaking for myself, but I don't like to turn to my family all the time. I love them to death, but my friends are the outside view that I need a lot of the time.

I know I have a different opinion of the term 'friend' than I did months ago. This changed definition of a friend has led me to realize that I don't have many friends, but I have a lot of acquaintances. So, here's to my friends, the people that keep me going.